Job Description

Construction Equipment Test & Validation Technician

Salina, KS

We are currently seeking an experienced Construction Equipment (CE) Test & Validation Technician to join the Kubota Construction Equipment Research and Development (CERDNA) Engineering team at the Kubota North America R&D Center located in the new Great Plains Manufacturing CE facility in Salina, KS.

The Test & Validation Technician will be accountable for collaborating with the test & design engineering departments, assembling, operating and testing Kubota CE products, as well as supporting the continuous improvement of the Compact Track Loader and Skid Steer Loader products for North America.

This position will also provide logistic support of all parts and supplies that come in and out of our facility along with providing inventory management onsite. This position will also be crucial in keeping our shop area up to Kubota standards as it relates to 6S and shop safety. The position will also have the responsibility for assembly & repair of prototypes, performing lab & field operations, as well collecting test data, all while working within a cross-functional and global team environment.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assembly/repair of prototype machines
• Install, diagnose and use highly accurate sensors and data acquisition equipment
• Performing lab & field tests/reporting on prototype machines and components
• Operating and assisting with prototype machines in field testing
• Pick up/Drop off parts and supplies to and from GPM/Local Suppliers
• Maintain and manage inventory of storage racks, shop consumables, company vehicles and trailers
• Maintain shop floor and warehouse areas to a 6S Kubota standard
• Operate swing reach turret style forklift at elevated heights (up to 30’) in narrow spaces to pull parts and organize inventory
• Understand and lead others in support of ISO 9001 calibration methodologies
• Provide clear & direct feedback on prototype operation feel and performance
• Document and communicate prototype assembly experiences to engineers
• Document and communicate quality of vehicle/user interaction experience to engineers
• Assure CE products meet the safety, quality, robustness and performance customer expect for Kubota products
• Analyze and interpret basic test data and collaborate with engineers to prepare technical reports for use by CE engineering and management personnel
• Use computer software and hardware to conduct tests on construction machinery and equipment according to the latest industry standards
• Use the latest in modern online collaboration software tools to efficiently communicate, document and organize work
• Adhere to procedures, test methods, validation master plans and other validation and test related documentation. 
• Maintain an organized, clean and safe work environment.
• Maintain an open flow of communication and collaboration with Shop Foreman as well as the various engineering departments
• Follow all Kubota and OSHA safety regulations and wear prescribed safety and protective equipment
• Other duties may be assigned that require other qualifications, physical demands, and/or work environment

Preferred Skills and Qualifications:

• Associate's degree (A. A.) or equivalent from two-year college or technical school; or minimum one-year related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot/perceive/diagnose problems
• Ability to read and interpret prints and assembly instructions
• Comprehensive understanding of hydraulic and electrical control systems
• Ability to safely operate all types of modern construction equipment
• Comfortable working at elevated heights while using appropriate safety equipment
• Knowledge of test equipment, methods of test and data collection
• Ability to work cross-functionally with various teams to gather key inputs
• Proficient in using precision measuring tools
• Ability to safely work in high pressure environment in all weather conditions
• High level of proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Google-based programs, workflow management software and inventory control programs
• Excellent written and verbal communication; strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities
• Ability to safely use fabrication tools such as acetylene torch and stick/MIG welder
• DOT medical certificate required. Must be able to obtain Great Plains Trucking certification and/or CDL within 6 months of hire
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally (up to 5% per year)
• Experience with Dewesoft, eDAQ or other test data collection systems helpful
• Previous R&D test experience/product cycle

Great Plains Manufacturing, headquartered in Salina, KS, is a proud subsidiary of the Kubota Corporation. With over 50 years as a leading Kansas manufacturer of agricultural implements, including seeding, tillage, and landscaping equipment, our new Construction Equipment Division produces Kubota-branded skid steers, compact track loaders and attachments. With locations in 8 Kansas communities, Great Plains Mfg is comprised of 5 divisions: Great Plains Ag; Land Pride; Great Plains International; Great Plains Trucking; and the Construction Equipment Division. The CE Division is supported by the Kubota Construction R&D Engineering team, located in Salina, KS. Great Plains employs over 2,000 people in 8 communities across Kansas and is committed to fostering innovation and supporting your professional growth. If you're self-motivated, passionate about achieving goals, and value collaboration, we encourage you to apply to join our dynamic team. Grow with us! Explore all our open opportunities on our Careers page at www.WorkForGPM.com.